How to Make a Perfect Breadmaker Loaf

The smell of baking bread often brings back memories of home and comfort. Sadly, it is usually considered too difficult and time-consuming to be made regularly. Using a bread-maker, however, can make homemade bread a daily treat. Making the perfect loaf of bread is easier than you may think.

Things You'll Need

• Standard measuring cups

Instructions

1. Choose your bread-maker carefully. Bread-makers come with a variety of options and accessories; choose the one that fit your lifestyle.

2. Read the directions. Each bread-maker is different: in some the liquid must be added first, in some it must be added last and some require different ingredients to be added in a different order. To enjoy a perfect loaf, follow the instructions for your specific bread-maker.

3. Buy high-quality ingredients. Using the best bread flour and the freshest yeast makes a big difference in the final result of your bread-making.

4. Measure the salt carefully. Salt inhibits the bread's rising, so too much will mean your loaf will not raise as nicely as you want.

5. Use a standard measuring spoon or cup for all of the ingredients, not a soup spoon or coffee cup. Standard amounts will ensure a perfect result with your bread-making.

6. Remove the loaf from the bread-maker pan immediately after baking. You may end up with a soggy, imperfect loaf if you let it cool in the pan.

7. Experiment. Once you have the basic recipe down, add extras, like: herbs, Parmesan cheese or garlic to your bread to achieve different flavors.

8. Enjoy. Share the fruits of your labor with friends and family. Nothing tastes better than a warm slice of fresh bread smothered in melting butter.